For the past two years, the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has stirred emotions in Montreal, sparking protests, demands for action, and a deep division within the city. Montreal, with a significant Jewish population and a history of activism, has been a focal point highlighting the contentious nature of this conflict.
In a significant shift, Montreal saw a surge in protests related to international politics following the October 7, 2023, events, becoming the most common reason for demonstrations in the city, according to data from the Université de Montréal’s research group, CAPED. Montreal police data revealed over 1,000 protests linked to the Middle East conflict, resulting in more than 100 arrests.
The conflict escalated rapidly after Hamas launched a surprise attack on October 7, 2023, leading to retaliatory strikes by Israel and a formal declaration of war. Protests erupted in Montreal, with demonstrators calling for a “free Palestine” and showing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. The violence sparked denunciations from officials, with then immigration minister Marc Miller and Premier François Legault condemning the protests as “shameful.”
As the conflict unfolded, Montreal witnessed a series of protests, counter-protests, and key moments. These included controversial speeches, rallies calling for the return of hostages, and a resurgence of weekly marches. The violence escalated, resulting in casualties, injuries, and widespread destruction in Gaza, leading to accusations of genocide by a UN commission.
Students played a significant role in the protests, setting up encampments, walking out of classes, and participating in strikes. The clashes extended beyond campuses, with tensions rising during events like the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, which faced anti-NATO and pro-Palestinian protests.
The escalation of the conflict also led to a rise in reported hate incidents targeting Jewish and Arab-Muslim communities in Montreal. The hate crimes and incidents prompted concerns about safety and heightened tensions within the communities.
Furthermore, controversies emerged around the sale of Quebec-made weapons to Israel, triggering protests and accusations of complicity. The protests targeted arms manufacturer General Dynamics and raised questions about the government’s role in approving arms permits.
Criticism of media coverage also surfaced, with protesters targeting news outlets for their reporting on the conflict. Demonstrations outside media buildings highlighted concerns about language used and the portrayal of events related to the Israel-Palestinian conflict.
Montrealers marked the two-year anniversary of the conflict with gatherings and protests, reflecting on the lives lost and the ongoing impact of the conflict. Calls for attention to the broader Israel-Palestinian conflict and demands for action from authorities underscored the deep-rooted divisions and grievances within the community.